Korean Cable Corp Signs Deal Next-Gen Superconductors

Image source: Taihan/SuperNode
A leading Korean cable company has signed a deal with an Irish firm to develop “next-generation” superconducting cables for the offshore wind industry.

Taihan will work with Dublin-based SuperNode on the design and roll out of polymer-based transmission cables which promise to “significantly” enhance efficiency and simplify installation compared to traditional superconducting cables.

SuperNode’s proprietary technology also reduces cooling losses and extends the installation interval of cooling systems by more than five times, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.

John Fitzgerald, SuperNode CEO, said: “By combining Taihan’s 80 years of manufacturing excellence with our innovative design technology, we anticipate accelerating the commercialization of high-capacity superconducting cables that will facilitate electrification in renewable energy and data centre markets.”

And Song Jong-min, Taihan vice chairman, said: “Through the integration of our cable manufacturing expertise with SuperNode’s advanced superconducting design capabilities, we are confident in our ability to enhance our global competitiveness in the superconducting sector.

“We will continue to lead the growth of the global superconducting cable industry through technological advancements.”

Superconducting cables utilize specialized materials that demonstrate zero electrical resistance when cooled below a specific temperature, serving as an alternative to traditional copper conductors.

In comparison to copper or aluminum cables, superconducting cables provide significantly enhanced power transmission efficiency.

Unlike conventional cables, which necessitate higher voltages to transport large currents, superconducting cables can transmit high-capacity currents at lower voltages.

Image source: Taihan/SuperNode